Almost half of India -- an area home to more than 500 million people -- is facing drought-like conditions because of deficient pre-monsoon rainfall, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

In Shakar Pada village, water levels in the well are dangerously low, meaning villagers are relieved to see Dukre roll in, attach a hose to the back of the tanker and start to fill up everyone's vessels.

"There has been a scarcity of water for the past month," Pramila Shewale tells AFP as she carries a freshly filled pot of water on her head to her home.

"If it wasn't for the water tankers we would have to rely on the well, which would be very difficult," the 25-year-old adds.

- Monsoon -

The village's 98 families survive on agriculture, growing mostly rice and vegetables that they sell at markets in nearby cities. During drought there is no water for agriculture or livestock.